NFL Play 60 program encourages Boca Middle students

Tossing one perfect spiral after another to each student-athlete at Boca Raton Community Middle School, Vince Young didn't show any signs of hesitation when Zekendrick Jackson's turn in line came.

The Tennessee Titans' Pro Bowl quarterback watched Jackson maneuver his wheelchair into position, then delivered a strike into the hands of the 14-year-old seventh-grader.

"I was trying to catch it like a professional football player," said Jackson, a disabled student. "That was my favorite event, catching the ball with Vince. I practiced at home, and when he said, 'Good job, baby!' that made my day."

Before stepping onto the field in Miami for the NFL's annual Pro Bowl, Young and many others from this year's all-star class took part in several activities with Boca children during the first-ever NFL Play 60 Community Blitz.

"I feel like just being there, having fun and putting a smile on everyone's face is so important," Young said. "We're here today to represent the NFL and help kids be really active and stay active. We want to let them know we're there for them. Get out there and run around."

The largest community program in league history, the NFL Play 60 Community Blitz took place Jan. 28 in partnership with the NFL Players Association and league sponsor Bank of America. There were three separate events in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties.

The NFL Play 60 program is intended to help fight childhood obesity by encouraging kids to get outside for 60 minutes a day to exercise, whether it's playing sports or running around the schoolyard playing tag with friends.

"They were the best," said the 13-year-old Adams. "We all ran hard and caught passes from them. I feel happy and healthy. I broke a sweat. I like this school."

Taking a break from the action, Williams stayed busy by using his camera to film the activities at each station. "It's very important for children to get out and have fun, meet new friends and stay fit," he said. "Whether it's playing football, tag or hide and seek, staying in shape is mentally and physically good."

It's also economically good. Bank of America donated $100,000 to the Play 60 nonprofit community partners. Partner organizations include the American Heart Association, KaBOOM!, Boundless Playgrounds and FLIPANY.

"It's trying to give them the importance of being active," said Williams, who was joined by Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and running back Chris Johnson among others. "But again, having fun is the key. Everything we do is for fun. If they're having fun, then I want to do the same."

Shaundrika Taylor didn't waste any time getting in on the action. Taylor, the school's reading teacher, took part in the squat and jump drills.

"This is an excellent opportunity for the youngsters to meet the players and get some exercise. It certainly keeps them healthy and in shape," Taylor said. "I'm working on my legs. The squats are good."

Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said it was rewarding to give back to the community. "We feel very wonderful about it," said Phillips, who taught kids the proper way to carry the football. "A lot of our players today, we're in the same situation. I think the 60 minutes of activity is the key. Video games are fun, but you still have to get out and move around your whole life because it's good for you."

Boca Middle School Principal Jack L. Thompson agreed. Thompson smiled as he watched students execute the rubber band circuit for shoulders and arms, perform toe and fingertip touches and jump rope.

"It is something that is very special," he said. "Now we have a playground, along with outside equipment, that gives each and every one of our students an opportunity to participate in full-fledged athletic activities. I'm so proud. This is a wonderful day."